CASTEL SANT’ANGELO
Castel Sant’Angelo, on the right bank of the Tiber, is undoubtedly one of the foundations of the ancient Urbe. His history, in fact, coincides with of Rome’s history; changes, upheavals, miseries and glories of the ancient city have always reflected in this mighty monument. It was built in 125 a.c. by the Emperor Adriano as his mausoleum and for several years kept this function. The second life of the castle began only in 403 a.c. when it was included in the Aurelian Walls by West Emperor Onorio. From here began the second life of the castle, It lost its grave original function, becoming a bulwark, indicated for the first time with the title of “castellum”. Over the centuries it has undergone changes yet, from a fortress to a terrible prison in a wonderful Renaissance, to become a center currently active in the cultural Capitoline that attracts millions of visitors to its charming halls, frescoes, paintings and artifacts.
MUSEI VATICANI
The Vatican Museum, located within the state of Vatican City, is considered one of the largest art collections in the world, because they collect the huge collection of artworks accumulated over the centuries by the Popes. Founded in 1506 by Pope Julius II and open to the public only in 1771, Its offer, including rooms and corridors, 7 km of the undisputed masterpieces. Among the many frescoes and the incredible cultural wealth may be inside, it stands, without doubt, the Sistine Chapel that is known throughout the world to be the place where the official ceremonies take place of the Pope and to be decorated with artwork of exception: the frescoes of Michelangelo Buonarroti.
SAN PIETRO
At the edge of the historic center of Rome is St. Peter’s Square. The square is a remarkable example of Baroque architecture and urban planner and meeting point for worshipers and tourists from around the world. An imposing colonnade, formed by 140 statues, divides the square into two parts and opens the door to the majesty and beauty of St. Peter’s Basilica. The basilica, began to be built in 1506 and was not completed until 1626. In fact, the structure is only the reconstruction of a former basilica built by the Emperor Constantine in the fourth century. As tradition tells the same site was buried St. Peter the first of the apostles of Jesus. Many artists such as Michelangelo, Bramante, Bernini participated in the reconstruction of the original basilica of Constantine, this has helped make it an incredible artistic heritage.
VIA PICCOLOMINI
Via Piccolomini is situated near the Gianicolo hill, in a position so elevated above the rest of the city. Thanks to this location and the perfect alignment of the road with the dome of St. Peter creating a visual spectacle unprecedented. Down the road from the farthest point from the dome you will see it shrink and seem to get away from this. On the contrary, starting from the nearest point and broke with the dome, already majestic, seem to be more and more impressive. Maybe it’s an optical illusion, or perhaps it is just another spell of Rome.
